When I first moved to Texas, I wanted to start a dinner party tradition that could be mine and Matt's to host every year. As I was new to Texas, and meeting new friends, Friendsgiving seemed like perfect choice! Over the years our party has gone from casual to formal and now has taken on a family friendly vibe!

With the arrival of cooler weather comes the excitement of the holiday season. In our house, holidays are synonymous with decorating, shopping, and dinner parties. Whether it be a small get together with friends or an extended family Thanksgiving, the pressure of hosting can be overwhelming to even the most experienced of hosts. In preparation for my 6th Annual Friendsgiving dinner party, I'm sharing a few hostess tips that I've learned through the years of planning and hosting parties and events! Whether you're a first time hostess, or just looking for some new ideas, these party and hosting tips are guaranteed to leave you feeling confident going into this holiday season!

You might be slightly crazy if you decide to plan an elaborate birthday party for a two year old around a swimsuit, or you may just be Lauren Barger!

Y'all, sometimes you just stumble across something so cute that your mind just floods with visions of color pallets, fabrics, and decor. For me, this happened when I stumbled across a post on Instagram for the most adorable swimsuit for Stella from Smockingbird Children's Clothing!

I am a sucker for a paper flower! My first encounter with them was in elementary school when we made tissue paper flowers for Cinco de Mayo! To me, a flower in any form is stunning! When it comes to decorating a space, I find that there is always room for more flowers! These paper flowers are a cheap and easy DIY that will add texture, fill, and color to any event or space!!

Planning Stella's first birthday party began while she was still in the womb! From the moment I made her floral "S" for her nursery, I fell in love with the idea of a garden party inspired 1st birthday!